Aliso Viejo gained a posse of 867 Marines last night when the City Council unanimously “adopted” the 1st Maintenance Battalion based at Camp Pendleton.
By accepting the city’s offer, the battalion and the city can forge an official relationship. Aliso Viejo Mayor Pro Tem Dave Harrington requested the council consider the move as a way to serve both the Marines and people of Aliso Viejo.
“These Marines want to be connected to somebody and having an official status with the city gives them a sense of home,” Mayor Pro Tem Harrington said. “By adopting this unit, the city of Aliso Viejo will demonstrate its commitment to our men and women serving in the Marines in general and recognize the contributions to the cause of the Corps of the 1st Maintenance Battalion in particular.”
The 1st Maintenance Battalion is a decorated and integral component of our nation’s military readiness. Dating back to 1947, the battalion participated in the Korean and Vietnam wars as well as operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Restore Hope and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The battalion has received numerous awards and recognition for its service.
Adopting the battalion will not cost the city anything. A citizens’ committee is being formed to provide year-round support to members of the battalion and their families.
For information about the committee, contact Michele Williams Harrington at 949-389-0004 or socalfastpitch@gmail.com.
Kelly Tokarski
KT Community Relations
